Almost eighty percent of women are wearing ill-fitting bras. That ladies, is a problem that can and should be solved…today.
This wrong bra phenomenon typically begins after having children. So many women assume that after doing away with pregnancy and nursing bras that their pre-baby bra will fit. Oh, if only. Be prepared to endure painful underwire and cups that dig into your sides. Do not be shocked if whatever memory of a bra size you do have – is well, no longer accurate. Yes, even something crazy like going from a size 38C to a size 36DDD!
If you’re not ready for a professional bra fitting but still want to make sure you’re wearing the right bra size, grab a tape measure (the fabric kind, trust me!). Then use these handy instructions to walk you through a bra fitting at home.
And remember, wearing the wrong bra size can produce breast pain and bra irritation. For example, in a study on female horse riders and the impact of their bras, forty percent reported breast pain and fifty nine percent reported at least one bra issue. But don’t worry: It’s a myth that ill-fitting bras cause breast cancer.
Step 1: Determine your bra band size
While braless or wearing a non-padded bra, use a measuring tape to measure around your torso directly under your bust, where a bra band would sit. The tape should be level and very snug. Round to the nearest whole number. If the number is even, add four inches. If it’s odd, add five. Your band size is the sum of this calculation. (So, if you measured 32 inches, your band size is 36. If you measured 33 inches, your band size is 38).
Step 2: Take your bust measurement
Wrap the measuring tape somewhat loosely around the fullest part of your chest (at nipple level). Round to the nearest whole number.